Particulate loading device having s-shaped rotational member

ABSTRACT

A loading apparatus for distributing particulate matter during loading of the particulate matter into a transport container, the apparatus including a housing including an inlet and an outlet, each configured on a side of the housing so that particulate matter can pass through the housing from the inlet to the outlet and from the outlet along a flow path of the particulate matter into a transport container; a rotary drive operatively supported with respect to the housing; and a rotatable member operatively connected with the rotary drive and supported with respect to the housing so as to be rotatable within the flow path for spreading particulate matter within the transport container in a radial direction away from the flow path of the particulate matter from the housing outlet, the rotatable member comprising a central axis and at least two curved arms extending radially from the central axis.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/575,633, filed Aug. 24, 2011,titled “Particulate Loading Device Having S-Shaped Rotational Member,”which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

According to one known method of producing corn-based ethanol, inaddition to ethanol, dried solids referred to as dried distillers'grains (DDG) or dried distillers' grains with solubles (DDDS), bothparticulate matter, are produced. DDG are conventionally shipped intransport containers, such as railcars, truck containers, or containersthat may be hauled on a barge or a ship.

It is known to load particulate matter into transport containers.According to one known loading arrangement, facilitated by gravity,particulate matter is released from a storage container, through aspout, and into a transport container. Such known methods may not fullyload the containers, as particulate matter loaded in this mariner maynot be densified (i.e., packed as fully as possible), and may form voidsor empty spaces within the transport containers.

It would be advantageous to have a method and an apparatus or a systemfor loading particulate matter into a transport container that loadstransport containers and that is capable of densifying the particulatematter (e.g., by minimizing the formation of voids or empty spacesduring loading of the container).

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the subject disclosure relates to an apparatus forloading particulate matter (e.g., dried distiller's grains (DDG)) into amovable transport container. The apparatus can employ a housing havingan inlet configured to receive particulate matter and an outletconfigured to dispense particulate matter. The apparatus can also employa motor and a rotational member driven by the motor and at leastpartially disposed beneath the housing so that the particulate matterdispensed from the outlet is pushed within the container. In anexemplary embodiment, the rotational member comprises a blade orrotatable member having an S-shaped configuration when viewed from thetop of the blade. A rotational member having an S-shaped configurationis particularly useful for distributing particulate matter into theperiphery of the movable transport container.

In another aspect, the subject disclosure relates to a method of loadingparticulate matter (e.g., dried distiller's grains (DDG)) into a movabletransport container with a peripheral region using an apparatuscomprising a rotatable member configured to be positioned at leastpartially into an opening for the chamber. The method can employ the actof locating the apparatus adjacent to the opening for the chamber. Themethod can then employ the act of initiating a flow of particulatematter from the apparatus into the opening. The method can then employthe act of rotating the rotatable member to facilitate the dispensing ofparticulate matter within the chamber. The method can then employ theact of engaging the rotational member with particulate matter so that atleast a portion of particulate matter that has been dispensed into thechamber is pushed into the peripheral region within in the chamber. Inan exemplary embodiment, the rotational member comprises a blade havingan S-shaped configuration.

In yet another aspect, the subject disclosure relates to a method ofloading particulate matter into a movable transport container having atleast one opening using an apparatus having a housing and a rotatablemember extending at least partially below the housing. The methodemploys the act of placing the apparatus at least partially into theopening of the transport container. The method then employs the act ofenabling the particulate matter to flow through the apparatus and intothe transport container. The method then employs the act of actuatingthe rotatable member to radially spread the particulate matter withinthe transport container when a height of the particulate matter reachesa first detected level. The method then employs the act of advancing thetransport container relative to the apparatus until a desired volume ofthe particulate matter is loaded in the transport container. In anexemplary embodiment, the rotational member comprises a blade having anS-shaped configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be further explained with reference to theappended Figures, wherein like structure is referred to by like numeralsthroughout the several views, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic system block diagram of an ethanol plant,illustrating a facility for producing corn-based ethanol producing drieddistiller's grains with solubles (DDGS) or dried distiller's grains(DDG) as a co-product;

FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective front-side view of an embodimentmounted on a railcar;

FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective front-side view of an embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an exploded schematic perspective front-side view of anembodiment;

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an embodiment inoperation, pushing particulate matter into open areas of the transportcontainer;

FIGS. 6 a through 6 f show various schematic views of a filling methodfor a transport container according to an embodiment. FIGS. 6 a and 6 billustrate an initial particulate matter filling. FIGS. 6 c and 6 dillustrate the moment when rotation of the rotatable member (e.g.,spreader blade) is actuated. FIGS. 6 e and 6 f illustrate theprogression of the loading apparatus as it advances across the railcar;

FIGS. 7 a through 7 d are schematic illustrations comparing a transportcontainer filled with a loading method not employing an embodiment(FIGS. 7 a and 7 b) to a transport container loaded according to anembodiment (FIGS. 7 c and 7 d);

FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of a system for loadingparticulate matter into a transport container without employing anembodiment;

FIGS. 9 a through 9 c are schematic illustrations of the repose angle ofa pile of particulate matter;

FIGS. 10 a and 10 b are schematic illustrations of unfilled areas (e.g.,voids) of a transport container loaded without employing an embodiment,and without re-leveling;

FIGS. 11 a through 11 f are schematic illustrations of a method ofloading a transport container with particulate matter without employingan embodiment;

FIGS. 12 a through 12 c are simplified schematic end view illustrationsof particulate matter loaded into a transport container not according toan embodiment, using a manual, iterative re-leveling process;

FIG. 13 is a schematic front view of an embodiment engaged by a loadingspout;

FIGS. 14 a through 14 d are schematic views illustrating the anembodiment adjusted to fit transport container openings of varyingwidths: FIG. 14 a is a schematic end view of an embodiment configured toa narrow opening; FIG. 14 b is a schematic top view of an embodimentconfigured to a narrow opening; FIG. 14 c is a schematic end view of anembodiment configured to a wide opening; and FIG. 14 d is a schematictop view of the loading apparatus configured to a wide opening;

FIGS. 15 a and 15 b are simplified schematic views illustrating theoperation of a bypass path of an embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a simplified schematic perspective view of an embodiment;

FIGS. 17 a through 17 b are simplified schematic side views of anembodiment, illustrating functioning of a deflector;

FIG. 18 a through 18 d are simplified schematic top views of anembodiment, illustrating a guide members and sensors;

FIG. 19 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment, illustratingthe functionality of guide wheels;

FIG. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an embodimentmounted on a transport container;

FIG. 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an embodimentmounted on a transport container showing the functionality of arotatable member oriented to pass through an opening of an inner wall;

FIG. 22 is a perspective front-side view of an embodiment having coversto selectively block an opening, according to an embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a schematic perspective top-side view of an embodiment,illustrating a center mounted motor;

FIG. 24 is a schematic perspective top-side view of an embodiment,illustrating a belt drive or chain drive;

FIG. 25 is a schematic perspective top-side view an embodiment,illustrating a gear drive;

FIGS. 26 a through 26 f are schematic views illustrating densificationof particulate matter through the oscillating force exerted on thematter by the rotatable member, according to an embodiment;

FIGS. 27 a through 27 f are various schematic views of a filling methodfor a railcar employing an embodiment in which the rotatable member ispositioned within the transport container remain in the pile ofparticulate matter as the transport container is loaded;

FIGS. 28 a through 28 d are simplified schematic views illustrating theoperation of a bypass path of an embodiment;

FIG. 29 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of operating anembodiment;

FIG. 30 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of loadingparticulate matter into a transport container using an apparatusaccording to an embodiment;

FIG. 31 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method of loadingparticulate matter into a transport container using an apparatusaccording to an embodiment;

FIG. 32 a is a top view of an embodiment of a rotational member havingan S-shaped configuration;

FIG. 32 b is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 32 a;

FIG. 33 a is a top view of an embodiment of a rotational member havingan S-shaped configuration;

FIG. 33 b is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 33 a;

FIG. 34 a is a top schematic view of another embodiment of a rotationalmember;

FIG. 34 b is a perspective view of the rotational member illustrated inFIG. 34 a;

FIG. 35 a is a top schematic view of another embodiment of a rotationalmember;

FIG. 35 b is a perspective view of the rotational member illustrated in35 a;

FIG. 36 a is a top schematic view of another embodiment of a rotationalmember;

FIG. 36 b is a perspective view of the rotational member illustrated inFIG. 36 a;

FIG. 37 a is a top schematic view of another embodiment of a rotationalmember;

FIG. 37 b is a perspective view of the rotational member illustrated in37 a;

FIG. 38 a is a top schematic view of another embodiment of a rotationalmember;

FIG. 38 b is a side view of the rotational member illustrated in FIG. 38a; and

FIG. 38 c is a perspective view of the rotational member illustrated inFIG. 38 a.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a schematic system block diagram of an ethanol plant,illustrating an exemplary facility for producing corn-based ethanol. Asshown in FIG. 2, an embodiment of an apparatus for loading particulatematter (e.g., DDG or DDGS) into a transport container 200 (e.g.,railcar) is shown mounted on a railcar. The apparatus operates bymechanically spreading particulate matter radially within the railcar,countering the effects of the natural repose angle of the particulatematter. An embodiment can be used to load a railcar with particulatematter from a hopper (e.g. a silo, surge bin, or the like) by receivingparticulate matter from a loading spout 100 in communication with thesilo or surge bin. It is to be understood that an embodiment is notlimited to using hoppers but that all other options where transportcontainers are loaded from above with particulate matter (e.g., withconveyor belts or conveyor pipes) can also be used. A transportcontainer (e.g., railcar) can include a floor having spaced-apart endwalls and side walls that extend to define a container, with a top wallto enclose the container. The top wall can have an elongated opening201, which may be centrally located between the side walls. The opening201 can substantially extend between the end walls of the container.Within the container, one or more internal walls may extend between theside walls to divide the container into a plurality of chambers.

As shown in FIG. 3, the apparatus comprises a housing 501 with windows502, a detachable top side 503 having an inlet defined by a loadingspout engagement ring 504, a bypass path 510, one or more deflectors520, 521, 522, one or more splash panels 505, one or more adjustablesupport brackets 600, safety sensors 602, a motor 700, a rotatablemember 800, and one or more wheels 900.

According to an embodiment, particulate matter is provided for loadinginto the transport container through the opening of the container. Usingan embodiment of a loading apparatus to move particulate matter towardsthe walls of the container increases the amount of particulate matterthat can be loaded into the transport container. The loading apparatusmay be located at multiple positions along the opening of the containerto evenly distribute and compact particulate matter into the container.FIG. 2 shows a loading spout 100 engaging the embodiment of the loadingapparatus 500 positioned on top of the opening 201 of a container 200.FIG. 4 shows an exploded perspective front-side view of an embodiment.

According to an embodiment, the rotatable member 800 physically contactsparticulate matter in order to distribute it as shown in FIG. 5. Whenimmersed in particulate matter, the rotatable member rotates and pushesparticulate matter radially away from the rotatable member, into thevoids in the container. During operation (e.g., when the rotatablemember is being rotated) particulate matter is fed through the loadingspout and through the loading apparatus. Because particulate matter iscontinually pushed outwardly by the rotatable member, particulate matteris unable to form a pile having its natural repose angle. Once thetransport container is substantially loaded with particulate matter,continued rotation of the rotatable member causes densification ofparticulate matter near the rotatable member. Exemplary embodiments ofrotatable members are discussed in additional detail below.

FIGS. 6 a through 6 f show various schematic views illustrating theprocess of filling a transport container with particulate matteremploying an embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 6 a and 6 b, when thecontainer is substantially empty, particulate matter may flow throughthe housing and into the container with or without the motor of theloading apparatus being operated. Operating the motor when the containeris substantially empty will cause particulate matter to be distributedradially within the container, but can also create dust. According to anexemplary embodiment, when the height of particulate matter has reachedthe rotatable member as shown in FIGS. 6 c and 6 d, the loadingapparatus is enabled to spread particulate matter into the end cornersof the container and achieve added compaction in the area surroundingthe rotatable member. Use of an embodiment fills areas near the cornersand side walls of the container (e.g., the peripheral region of thecontainer) without requiring manual shoveling or re-leveling ofparticulate matter within the container.

According to an embodiment, particulate matter is spread by therotatable member such that some of particulate matter particles impingeupon (e.g., are thrown out towards) the inner surfaces of the sidewalls, causing the particulate matter to fill the containersubstantially evenly. Once particulate matter has substantially filledthe area near the rotatable member and particles are no longer thrownout towards the voids, the loading apparatus acts to physically push amass of particulate matter away from the rotatable member apparatus andbegin compacting (e.g., densifying) the particulate matter around therotatable member as more particulate matter is poured into the housing.After the rotatable member has provided a desired level of compaction inone area of the container, the container can be indexed, such that thetransport container is moved to a new location beneath an embodiment ofthe loading apparatus (e.g., a railcar can be advanced relative to anembodiment). Alternatively, the loading apparatus itself can be moved toa new location along the container, as shown in FIG. 6 f. In eitherprocess, the loading apparatus move relative to the container at a ratechosen so that the rotatable member remains immersed in the pile. It isunderstood that a transport container loaded according to an embodimentdoes not have to be moving or be moving uniformly during the entireloading process. According to an embodiment, the rotating action of therotatable member and pressure from particulate matter built up behindthe deflector naturally propels the loading apparatus to in a directionat a slow pace. If an area is completely full of particulate matter, andsomething prevents the loading apparatus from moving forward withoutoperator intervention, the bypass path will allow particulate matter tocontinue entering the housing without plugging the loading spout byproviding an alternative path for the particulate matter to flow, inwhich the particulate matter can continue filling the container untilthe loading apparatus can be advanced relative to the container.

As the loading apparatus nears the end of the container or any of thechambers therein, the decrease in the open volume of the chamber beingloaded will cause particulate matter to build up around the deflector.The additional particulate matter around the front of the loadingapparatus creates a barrier that acts to allow the rotatable member torotate at higher speeds without releasing additional dust. The barriercreated by the pile of particulate matter at the front of the loadingapparatus traps higher velocity particulate matter coming off of theface of the rotatable member. By increasing the speed of the rotatablemember as the loading apparatus reaches at the end of each chamber, moreparticulate matter can be pushed into the voids while increasingcompaction of particulate matter near the rotatable member. Anembodiment can use discrete speed settings in which a control system oroperator selects a desired speed and the rotatable member operates atthat speed. Another embodiment can use a variable speed design that candrive the rotatable member at an infinite number of speeds within adesired range.

FIGS. 7 a through 7 d are schematic illustrations comparing a transportcontainer containing particulate matter loaded according to a loadingmethod not employing a rotatable member to a container loaded withparticulate matter according to an embodiment. FIGS. 7 a and 7 b areschematic illustrations of the end and side cut-away views of acontainer that has been filled without utilizing a rotatable member.FIGS. 7 c and 7 d are schematic illustrations of the end and sidecut-away views of a container that has been filled using a rotatablemember. FIGS. 7 c and 7 d illustrate particulate matter spread into thespaces at the front and sides of the container. Once particulate matterhas been spread into these spaces, continued rotation of the rotatablemember can exert an oscillating compressive force on particulate matterbetween the rotatable member and the walls of the container. Thiscompressive force can increase the density (e.g., bulk density) ofparticulate matter surrounding the blade.

FIG. 8 illustrates a system for loading particulate matter into atransport container without employing a rotatable member, in which theparticulate matter is received through the opening of a container from aloading spout 100 in communication with a silo or surge bin. Particulatematter loaded into a container in this manner is received into thecontainer into the opening 201. Particulate matter enters the container,displacing air within the container. As air is displaced, fine particlesfrom the particulate matter may form dust. According to this method,particulate matter is not evenly distributed during loading because ofthe angle of repose of the particulate matter.

The slope, or angle, created by the side of a pile of DDG or otherparticulate matter measured from a horizontal line is called the angleof repose, shown as θ in FIGS. 9 a through 9 c. FIGS. 9 a through 9 cillustrates particulate matter being loaded onto a flat surface. Asparticulate matter piles up, the angle of repose remains substantiallyconstant. The angle of repose is substantially determined by particulateshape of the matter, density, and coefficient of friction. Particulatematter can be poured into the container until the apex of the pilereaches the top of the opening. Pouring additional particulate matterinto the container at that point can result in the particulate matteroverflowing the opening. The resultant pile of particulate matterunevenly loads the container with a larger amount of particulate matterin the container's center, below the opening. Areas about the exteriorwalls of the container are not filled, as particulate matter is unableto flow at less than its angle of repose, as schematically illustratedin FIGS. 10 a through 10 b. An estimate of the volume of the voids alongthe exterior of the walls of the container as shown in FIG. 10 a can bemade using the following formula, which can be referred to as Formula 1:Void Volume 1˜(width of void)²[tan(repose angle)](length of container).An estimate of the volume at both ends of the container as shown in FIG.10 b can be made using the following formula, which can be referred toas Formula 2: Void Volume 2˜(length of void)²[tan(repose angle)](widthof container).

FIGS. 11 a through 11 f are schematic illustrations showing particulatematter piling up inside a transport container when loaded from a loadingspout without employing a rotatable member. FIGS. 11 a and 11 billustrate particulate matter initially filling a transport container.FIGS. 11 c and 11 d illustrate a partially filled container, just priorto particulate matter overfilling the top of the container. Onceparticulate matter has formed a pile that reaches the loading spout, theloading spout is moved longitudinally relative to the container, inorder to continue filling the container. This longitudinal movement canbe accomplished by moving the loading spout while the container remainssubstantially stationary or by moving the container while the loadingspout remains substantially stationary. In some loading arrangements,both the container and loading spout may move to continue filling thecontainer with particulate matter. FIGS. 11 e and 11 f illustrate a fullcontainer loaded according to a conventional method. As illustrated inFIGS. 11 e and 11 f, voids 300 exist throughout the container inlocations where particulate matter was unable to flow and fill thecontainer completely. One cause of the voids may be that the feed rateof particulate matter from the loading spout is not consistent. Aninconsistent feed rate changes the pace at which the loading spout orcontainer be advanced, and may result in voids along the surface ofparticulate matter when that pace is not properly modulated. Voids atboth ends of the container and about each internal wall 202 location, aswell as voids occurring along the length of the container about thewalls, may be due at least in part to the angle of repose of theparticulate matter. When the loading spout is not moved to a newposition along the container once the pile of particulate matter reachesthe loading spout, particulate matter may build up inside of the loadingspout and plug the system. Once the plugged loading spout is cleared,loading of particulate matter may be resumed. To avoid plugging, theloading spout may be moved before the pile of particulate matter reachesthe spout, resulting in a container containing a lower volume ofparticulate matter.

In order to load additional particulate matter into a container filledwithout a rotating member, a manual, iterative re-leveling process maybe employed, in which particulate matter from the center of thecontainer is shoveled from the apex of the pile into the transportcontainer. After particulate matter is moved from the center of thepile, more particulate matter can then be added to the container untilthe apex again reaches the top of the opening. Subsequent iterations ofthe re-leveling process particulate matter can be employed as desired oruntil particulate matter from the apex can no longer be shoveled intothe transport container. During each iteration of the re-levelingprocess, the flow of particulate matter into the container may beinterrupted. FIGS. 12 a through 12 c are schematic illustrations of aniterative process of loading a container with particulate matter,releveling particulate matter in the container, and filling thecontainer with additional particulate matter. FIG. 12 a illustrates anend view of a container after it has initially been filled using theconventional loading method. FIG. 12 b illustrates the container afterparticulate matter has been shoveled into the open areas of thecontainer. FIG. 12 c illustrates the container after additionalparticulate matter has been loaded. Although this process iterative,access to the voids is decreased with each iteration. With each of theloading and re-leveling iterations, the amount of particulate mattersubsequently added to the container decreases.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the housing may comprise a chamberhaving a front and rear wall, two side walls, a top side, and a bottomside. The top side may form a top surface having an inlet for receivingparticulate matter into the housing, as illustrated in FIG. 13. The topside may have a loading spout engagement ring 504 for engaging a loadingspout to receive particulate matter from a silo or surge bin. Theloading spout engagement ring may have a circular shape and may furthercomprise a flanged ring for receiving the tapered end of a loading spout100. According to an embodiment, mounting brackets disposed on or nearthe top side may be used to couple the housing to the loading spout.These mounting brackets can be attached in such a way as to allow theloading apparatus to be transferable to other loading spouts. Theengagement ring may be disposed outside the perimeter of the loadingspout so that matter flowing from the loading spout into the housing isnot deflected or otherwise obstructed by the engagement ring. Accordingto an exemplary embodiment, the height of the engagement ring may befrom approximately 1 inch to 2 inches to minimize the buildup ofparticulate matter around the ring. In an exemplary embodiment, a shroudsurrounds the loading spout such that the loading spout fits within theengagement ring and both the loading spout and the engagement ring aresurrounded by the shroud.

The loading apparatus can include an adjustable guide assembly foradapting the apparatus to fill transport containers having openings withdifferent widths. As shown in FIGS. 14 a through 14 d, an exemplaryembodiment of adjustable guide assembly 600 comprises one or more wheelsmounted on brackets, such that each bracket can be positioned (e.g.,slid into place, rotated into place) as needed can be adjusted to fit anopening of a particular width and secured in place using a pin orsimilar device. In FIGS. 14 a and 14 b, an embodiment is shownconfigured for a narrow transport opening. In FIGS. 14 c and 14 d theguide assembly is adjusted to accommodate a container opening having a 6inch greater width. In one embodiment, the guides are permanentlyattached to the apparatus and can be slid to a position appropriate forthe container being loaded. In an exemplary embodiment, one or morebrackets of the adjustable guide assembly can rotate around a fixedpoint, such that the bracket can be positioned in one of four quadrants,each utilizing a different offset, to fit a variety of transportcontainer openings. According to an even further embodiment, elements ofthe adjustable guide assembly may be replaced, instead of adjusted, tofit a variety of transport container opening shapes and widths.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the adjustable guide assembly doesnot extend from the housing a distance greater than would allow theloader to push the particulate matter effectively into the voids whilealso densifying the particulate matter.

A rotatable member of a loading apparatus according to an embodiment,immersed in a pile of particulate matter, is intended to exertoscillating force on particulate matter until the loading apparatus isadvanced, or until particulate matter accumulates in the loadingapparatus. In an exemplary embodiment, a bypass path 510 may be locatedon the front side of a loading apparatus, as illustrated in FIG. 15 athrough 15 b. The normal path of the particulate matter through theloading apparatus is shown in FIG. 15 a. The bypass path provides a pathto relieve excess particulate matter that would otherwise accumulate inthe housing of the loading apparatus when the outlet is obstructed. FIG.15 b illustrates the relief path provided by the bypass path. Whileparticulate matter flows through the bypass path, the rotatable membercan to continue to rotate, applying the oscillating force on particulatematter already in the transport container and further densifying theparticulate matter.

In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 16, a viewing window 502 ofpolycarbonate or other substantially transparent material may beincorporated into any of the front, rear, side walls, intended to enablean operator to visualize activity within the housing during operation.By observing activity within the housing during operating, it isintended that the operator may monitor the flow of particulate matterand troubleshoot any plugging or equipment operation errors that mayoccur.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a deflector 520 is mounted to thefront of the housing in order to prevent particulate matter from beingthrown out of the pile in the transport container when the rotatablemember is rotating, as schematically shown in FIGS. 17 a and 17 b. Thisfunction is intended to reduce dust generated during the loading ofparticulate matter. FIG. 17 a illustrates particulate matter coming offthe face of the rotatable member, creating dust. FIG. 17 b illustratesthe deflector preventing particulate matter from leaving the container,thereby minimizing the generation of dust. The deflector can be made ofa material that does not bend or give under the force of particulatematter, such as fiberglass, a rigid plastic, carbon steel, or othermetal alloy. In an exemplary embodiment using a rigid deflector, thedeflector may act as a barrier to particulate matter coming off the faceof the rotatable member, increasing the oscillating force generated bythe spreader against the particulate matter and increasing the amount ofdensification imparted on the particulate matter. In an embodiment, thewidth of the deflector is adjustable for containers having openings ofvarious widths and shapes. According to an exemplary embodiment, adeflector 522 can be mounted at rear of the housing. The deflector maybe flexible to allow it to ride on top of the particulate matter piledin the container as particulate matter builds up behind the loadingapparatus and the loading apparatus moves forward along the container.In another embodiment, the deflector is rigid and extends out behind theloading apparatus to shield the opening and prevent particulate matterfrom leaving the container.

In known transport containers (e.g., railcars), the opening may beelongated and have doors that hinge on their longitudinal edge. Claspsopposite the hinges may be used to retain the doors in a closedposition. When opened, the doors may swing away from the opening andrest adjacent to the opening. The hinges and clasps may extend higherthan the opening, creating barriers to longitudinal travel of anembodiment down the opening, as portions of the embodiment maycontacting these hinges and clasps. In some cases railcars may bedamaged, having an opening with an inconsistent width. Guides may beused on the loading apparatus, intended to enable longitudinal movementby limiting the interference of the embodiment with clasps and hinges onthe railcar and maximizing the maneuverability of the loading apparatuswithin railcars having damaged openings of varying widths. As shown inthe exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 18 a through 18 d, guides are mountedat each corner of the housing to guide the loading apparatus within theopening of a transport container. FIG. 18 a shows a standard operatingposition of the loading apparatus centered inside the container opening,according to an embodiment. FIGS. 18 b, 18 c, and 18 d show the guidespositioned to limit the lateral movement of the loading apparatus. Inone embodiment, these guides are wheels 900 mounted vertically. Usingvertical wheels limits the friction between the loading apparatus andthe container to aid loading apparatus movement in the opening of thecontainer. In an embodiment, these vertical wheels are mounted toadjustable guides so that the position of the wheels can be modified asneeded to accommodate containers with different opening widths andshapes. In an exemplary embodiment, the wheels have sealed bearings tolimit friction.

According to an embodiment, the loading apparatus includes one or moresensors to prevent the apparatus from operating unless the lower edge ofthe housing is engaged with, or near, the rail car, as shown in FIG. 18a through 18 d. The sensors are intended to aid operator safety bypreventing the operation of the loading apparatus when the rotatablemember is not disposed within the container. According to an embodiment,the sensors 602 are connected via a series circuit so that a singlesensor cannot be defeated and allow the system to run. The sensors maybe mounted to the loading apparatus at a position inside of the rails,and may detect a horizontal distance between the sensor and the rails.The sensors enable the loading apparatus to run when the detecteddistance within a range distances such that the rotatable member issubstantially disposed inside the container. According to an embodiment,the range of distances within which the loading apparatus may operate issuch that the loading apparatus can be operated with the wheels restingon the opening or hovering just above the container. The sensors canalso be mounted horizontally above the edges of the container opening sothat a vertical distance is detected between the sensor and the rails,according to an embodiment. In another embodiment, a mechanical switchcan be used to enable the loader apparatus to run when the switchengages the rail. In one embodiment, the sensors are mounted toadjustable or removable guides so that the safe operating distance canbe adjusted as needed to accommodate containers with different openingwidths.

According to an embodiment shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the loadingapparatus can employ wheels 900 for supporting the apparatus on theopening of a container. The wheels can also support the weight of theloading apparatus, loading spout, and impinging particulate matterwithin both the loading apparatus and loading spout. According to anembodiment, the wheels are attached to the loading apparatus, and can bereplaceable. FIG. 19 is a schematic drawing showing an embodiment withreplaceable support wheels and guide wheels in which replacement of thewheels is accomplished by loosening attachment bolts and removing abracket 601 holding each of the wheels in place. In another embodiment,the axle 901 of each wheel may be spring loaded so that the wheels canbe removed without removing the brackets 601. A motor may be employed todrive the wheels for moving an embodiment along the opening of thecontainer as it is being filled. In one embodiment, the speed at whichan embodiment is driven along the opening could be controlled with atrigger that enables forward motion of the embodiment when particulatematter flows through the bypass path.

A rotatable member 800 is shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, according to anembodiment, which can be an S-shaped member, for example, or adifferently shaped rotatable member, as described herein. In this view,the front shape of the rotatable member is a generally solid orcontinuous surface, although it can instead be an elongated member witha substantially I-shaped cross section or a differently shapedcross-section. It is understood that many types of elongated memberscould be used to spread particulate matter. According to an exemplaryembodiment, if the particulate matter being loaded were to exhibit thecharacteristic of being compressed, the rotatable member couldincorporate an angled surface to push down and compress the matter.According to another exemplary embodiment, the rotatable member can bemounted horizontally, or in such a fashion that it is angled off of thehorizontal plane to alter the direction of force is applied to theparticulate matter.

Referring now to FIGS. 32 a and 32 b, a top view and a perspective viewof an exemplary embodiment of a rotatable member 800 are shown. In theembodiment of FIGS. 32 a and 32 b, the rotatable member 800 comprises agenerally S-shaped blade or member that includes a central axis 810around which the blade rotates in the direction shown by arrows 825 whenthe device is in operation. At the axis for rotation 810, the rotatablemember can include a hole 815 for mounting the rotatable member 800 tothe loading apparatus as described in more detail herein. Other mountingmeans may also be used.

The rotatable member 800 includes a generally straight central or baseportion 820 through which the hole 815 extends, and curved end portionsor arms 830 extending from both ends of base portion 820. The baseportion 820 may have a width that is at least slightly smaller than thewidth of the ends 830 that extend from it, or the width of the baseportion 820 may instead be the same or larger than the width of the ends830. The proportion of the length of the base portion 820 to the lengthof the ends 830 as shown is only intended to be one exemplary proportionof these lengths, wherein it is understood that the base portion 820and/or ends 830 can be slightly to substantially shorter or longer thanshown. The ends 830 are illustrated as having a width that tapers fromthe area of the central or base portion 820 toward their respectivedistal ends; however, the shape of the ends 830 can instead have more orless of a tapered shape along their lengths. It is further understoodthat the rotatable member 800 need not necessarily include a central orbase portion 820 that is a straight section of the member 800, but thatthe shape of the member 800 may instead include only curved portionsthat transition generally in the area of the hole 815 to provide theopposite sides of the S-shaped member. The rotatable member 800 maycomprise a single, integrally formed structure, or may instead includemultiple components that are attached to each other.

Curved end portions 830 curve away from the direction of rotation 825such that the convex side of each of the end portions 830 is the surfaceof the rotatable member 800 that is intended to contact the particulateduring rotation. As compared to a straight (e.g., I-shaped) blade, thecurved configuration of the embodiment of FIGS. 32 a and 32 b allows theblade or member to push particulate matter with greater force in theradial direction away from the loading apparatus and into the periphery(e.g., corners) of the movable transport container. The increased forceprovided by the S-shaped rotatable member allows the loading apparatusto more completely fill the movable transport container with particulatematter, especially at the sides and ends of the transport container. Forexample, it has been observed that in some embodiments, a curvedrotatable member may increase the loading of a typical rail car by up toabout 1000 pounds or more of additional particulate matter as comparedto a blade having a straight configuration.

In other exemplary embodiments of an S-shaped rotatable member, theradius of curvature of the curved end portions may be selected to besmaller or larger than that of the ends 830 of rotatable member 800, inorder to modify the force exerted on the particulate matter. Forexample, referring to FIG. 33 a and FIG. 33 b, a rotatable member 850 isillustrated, which includes a central or base portion 856 from which endportions 854 extend. Rotatable member 850 is a generally S-shaped bladeor member that includes a central axis 862 around which the memberrotates in the direction shown by arrows 860 when the device is inoperation. Rotatable member 850 can further include a hole 852 formounting the rotatable member 850 to a loading apparatus, although othermounting configurations can instead be used. The end portions 854 may beconfigured so that the curved portions terminate at a position that isapproximately perpendicular to the radial direction of movement of themember 850, as shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 33 a and 33 b, forexample, wherein a right angle 858 is formed between the radial andtangential lines, respectively. This configuration may provide anincrease in the radial force imparted by the rotatable member to theparticulate matter.

FIGS. 34 a and 34 b illustrate another exemplary embodiment of arotatable member 870, which generally includes a central disk or hub 872and two extending arms 874 extending from opposite sides of hub 872along the edge of hub 872. Arms 874 are shown as generally straightmembers that are generally parallel to each other and perpendicular toan axis 876 that extends through the center of hub 872. The disk or hub872 and its extending arms are generally “flat” such that they aregenerally considered to be planar relative to each other. Arms 874extend in opposite directions from their respective sides of the hub872. The relative sizes of the hub 872 and arms 874 can be slightly orsubstantially different than illustrated in order to achieve desiredparticulate movements. For example, the hub 872 can have a larger orsmaller diameter than shown, and the arms 874 may be longer, shorter,and/or have a different thickness than shown. In any case, the generalshape of the rotatable member 870 can be considered to generally providean S-shaped construction and therefore can provide the advantagesdiscussed herein relative to S-shaped members.

FIGS. 35 a and 35 b illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a rotatablemember 880 that has a similar configuration to rotatable member 870, inthat member 880 also includes a central disk or hub 882 and twoextending arms 884 extending from the hub 882. Again, the arms 884 areshown as being generally parallel to each other and extending inopposite directions from their respective sides of the hub 882, althoughthe arms 884 are angled relative to an axis 886 that extends through thecenter of hub 882. Again, the relative sizes of the hub 882 and arms 884can be slightly or substantially different than illustrated in order toachieve desired particulate movements. For example, the hub 882 can havea larger or smaller diameter than shown, and the arms 884 may be longer,shorter, and/or have a different thickness than shown. In any case, thegeneral shape of the rotatable member 880 can be considered to generallyprovide an S-shaped construction and therefore can provide theadvantages discussed herein relative to S-shaped members.

FIGS. 36 a and 36 b illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a rotatablemember 890 that also has a similar configuration to rotatable member870, in that member 890 also includes a central disk or hub 892 and twoextending arms 894 extending from opposite sides of the hub 892. In thisembodiment, the arms 894 are curved to provide different contact withparticulates than is provided with straight arms. Again, the relativesizes of the hub 894 and arms 894 can be slightly or substantiallydifferent than illustrated in order to achieve desired particulatemovements, and the curvature of the arms 894 can be larger or smallerthan shown. For example, the hub 892 can have a larger or smallerdiameter than shown, and the arms 894 may be longer, shorter, and/orhave a different thickness than shown. In any case, the general shape ofthe rotatable member 890 can be considered to generally provide anS-shaped construction and therefore can provide the advantages discussedherein relative to S-shaped members.

Another embodiment of a rotatable member 910 is illustrated in FIGS. 37a and 37 b, which generally includes a central disk or hub 912 and fourextending arms 914 extending from hub 912. The arms 914, as illustrated,are generally straight members that are arranged such that theygenerally extend at 90 degrees relative to each adjacent arm 914. Inother words, opposite pairs of arms 914 are generally parallel to eachother and perpendicular to one of two axes (not shown) that intersect ina perpendicular manner at the center of hub 912. However, at least oneof the arms 914 can extend from the hub 912 at an angle other than 90degrees. The relative sizes of the hub 912 and arms 914 can be slightlyor substantially different than illustrated in order to achieve desiredparticulate movements. For example, the hub 912 can have a larger orsmaller diameter than shown, and the arms 914 may be longer, shorter,and/or have a different thickness than shown. In any case, the generalshape of the rotatable member 910 can be considered to generally providea “double” S-shaped construction and therefore can provide theadvantages discussed herein relative to S-shaped members.

FIGS. 38 a-38 c illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a rotatablemember 920, which generally includes a central disk or hub 922 and twoarms 924 extending from opposite sides of hub 922. Arms 924 are shown asgenerally straight members that are generally parallel to each other andperpendicular to an axis 926 that extends through the center of hub 922.Arms 924 extend in opposite directions from their respective sides ofthe hub 922. In this embodiment, hub 922 is provided with a generallyconical shape that can help to redirect the flow of material duringloading. That is, as the rotatable member 920 is submerged inparticulate material, the inertial force of additional material flowinginto the loader can be transferred outwardly in a radial direction tofurther assist the member 920 in pushing the material outward. Flightscan also be added to the conical hub 922 to provide additionalcapability for the member 920 to push material downward. The relativesizes of the hub 922 and arms 924 can be slightly or substantiallydifferent than illustrated in order to achieve desired particulatemovements. For example, the hub 922 can have a larger or smallerdiameter than shown, which will thereby provide a different angle to theconical shape, and the arms 924 may be longer, shorter, and/or have adifferent thickness than shown. In any case, the general shape of therotatable member 920 can be considered to generally provide an S-shapedconstruction and therefore can provide the advantages discussed hereinrelative to S-shaped members.

The rotatable members described and illustrated herein can be producedof various materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, andbrass. Non-metallic materials, such as fiberglass may selected to avoidmetal-to-metal contact in situations where sparking is undesirable. Inan embodiment, the rotatable member is configured so that particles aredisplaced in a substantially horizontal manner towards the sidewalls ofthe container. The rotatable member displaces particles radially belowthe housing and inside the container. The rotatable member may berotated clockwise or counter-clockwise. In one embodiment, the rotatablemember may be centered on a hub on a rotating shaft. In an exemplaryembodiment, the rotatable member can be attached to a mounting platewhich may be affixed to the hub. The rotatable member may be removablefrom the mounting plate for replacement if damaged or worn. The size ofthe rotatable member can be chosen with consideration to the container'sopening, the lateral mobility of the loading apparatus as it travelsalong the opening of the container, and the properties of the matterbeing loaded. According to an exemplary embodiment, the rotatable membermay be at least one inch shorter than the width of the opening. Whenused with containers having internal walls, shortening or mitering therotatable member is intended to enable the rotatable member to avoidcontacting the internal walls during operation, as the apparatus passesthrough an opening in the internal wall from one chamber to the next. Ithas been observed that the rotatable member length is related to thedesired additional quantity of particulate matter to be loaded into acontainer. For example, an embodiment having a shorter rotatable membercan be configured to similarly load particulate matter into a containeras an embodiment having a longer rotatable member when the shorter bladeis rotated at a higher rate.

According to an embodiment, controls may be incorporated into the systemthat are intended to orient the rotatable member in a specific position.A sensor mounted on the leading side of the loading apparatus may beused to sense an internal wall between chambers of a container. Uponsensing the internal wall, the control system may stop the rotatablemember and position the rotatable member (e.g., rotatable member 800) inan orientation that will allow the apparatus to pass beyond through theopening in the internal wall without the rotatable member contacting theinternal wall, as shown in FIG. 21. An embodiment employing thesecontrols can employ a rotatable member having a length greater than thewidth of the container opening, or the width of the opening in theinternal wall, as the blade can be orientated to pass through thecontainer opening and openings in the internal walls without contactingthem. Use of a longer rotatable member is intended to spread particulatematter more fully throughout the container. According to an embodiment,a blade-orientation control system is intended to enable the rotatablemember to be run at a lower elevation inside of the chamber withoutsacrificing rotatable member length to accommodate for the radius of theopening in the internal wall. It has been observed that a shorterrotatable member may be operated at a comparatively greater rotationalspeed than a longer rotatable member to match the performance of thelonger rotatable member. Increased rotational speed is intended toincrease the density (e.g., bulk density) at which matter in thecontainer is compacted, but can also increase the amount of dust createdby the system. In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 22, covers 450 areshown, intended to minimize the amount of particulate matter and dustthat leave the container in front of and behind the loading apparatus.Choice of spread blade angular velocity depends on the physicalproperties of the matter being loaded.

FIG. 23 shows the motor 700 located within the housing of the loadingapparatus supported by mounting braces 506, according to an embodiment.This motor can be a hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical motor and can beoperated at a fixed or variable speed. In one embodiment, the motor islocated outside the housing as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25. In anembodiment using a motor located outside the housing, it may bedesirable to counter balance the motor weight to maintain a balanceddevice. In another embodiment, the rotatable member may be mounted to apulley or gear 710 driven by a chain or belt 711 that is powered by theexternal mounted motor 700, as shown in FIG. 24. FIG. 25 shows anembodiment employing a ring gear 720 mounted to the housing by a bearinghousing 721. The ring gear may be driven by a spur gear 722 mounted tothe shaft of the motor 700. The rotatable member may then mounted to thering gear.

According to an embodiment, the speed of the rotatable member may bevaried based on the level of particulate matter in the container, thelocation of the loading apparatus along the container, and thecharacteristics of the matter being loaded. Lower speed operation isintended to reduce dusting, and higher speed operation is intended tomaximize loading.

According to an embodiment, while the container is initially filled asshown in FIGS. 6 a and 6 b, stratification of densities may occur acrossthrough the depth of the container, as shown in FIG. 26 a through 26 f.The oscillating force of the rotatable member is only able to densifyparticulate matter while immersed in the particulate matter. Accordingto one embodiment, this stratification is intended to be overcome bylowering the loading apparatus into the container to a depth were therotatable member will be immersed in the matter at it fills the chamber.As the level of particulate matter rises, the depth of the loadingapparatus may be adjusted accordingly to maintain a densifying effect asthe container is filled as shown in FIG. 27 a through 27 f. In anexemplary embodiment, the loading apparatus remains stationary on theopening while the initial filling of the container takes place. Therotatable member may then be lowered to the level of particulate matteras desired to densify matter as it fills the chamber.

FIGS. 28 a and 28 b illustrate the penetration depth of the housing thatdefines the finished level of particulate matter, according to anembodiment. According to an embodiment, the rear wall of the housingincludes a chute defining an opening configured to divert a portion ofparticulate matter as it flows through the housing as shown in FIG. 28c. The chute 551 is configured to direct the diverted particulate matterto fall on top of the particulate matter behind the loading apparatus asshown in FIG. 28 d. The chute acts as a screeding device to control thefinished level of particulate matter in the transport container.According to an exemplary embodiment, the trailing edge of the chute canbe adjusted to change the height of the finished level. In an evenfurther embodiment, the trailing edge of the chute can be adjusted toproduce a finished level at a height substantially equal to the heightof the opening. An apparatus with a chute according to an embodimentenables an increased loading of particulate matter into the transportcontainer compared to an embodiment without a chute.

FIG. 29 shows the process flow diagram of procedures followed to operatethe loading apparatus in one embodiment.

An apparatus according to an embodiment includes a rotatable memberconfigured to be positioned at least partially into an opening for thechamber. As shown in FIG. 30, a method 1000 of loading particulatematter into a transport container having at least one chamber with aperipheral region can include the act of 1002 locating the apparatusadjacent the opening for the chamber by movement relative to thetransport container. The method can include the acts of 1004 initiatinga flow of particulate matter from the apparatus into the opening, 1006rotating the rotatable member to facilitate the dispensing ofparticulate matter within the chamber, and 1008 engaging the rotatablemember with particulate matter so that at least a portion of particulatematter that has been dispensed into the chamber is pushed into theperipheral region within the chamber. According to an exemplaryembodiment, the method 1000 can include the act of 1010 engaging therotatable member with particulate matter to increase the density of atleast a portion of the particulate matter that has been dispensed intothe chamber.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the method can also include theacts of positioning the rotatable member at a height within the chamberto be in contact with at least a portion of the particulate matter thathas been dispensed into the chamber and engaging the rotatable memberwith particulate matter to increase the density of at least a portion ofthe particulate matter that has been dispensed into the chamber.

According to an embodiment as shown in FIG. 31, a method 1100 of loadingparticulate matter into a transport container having at least oneopening can be performed using an apparatus having a housing and arotatable member extending at least partially below the housing. Themethod can include the acts of 1102 placing the apparatus at leastpartially into the opening of the transport container, 1104 enabling theparticulate matter to flow through the apparatus and into the transportcontainer, 1106 actuating the rotatable member to radially push theparticulate matter within the transport container when a height of theparticulate matter reaches a first detected level, and 1108 advancingthe transport container relative to the apparatus until a desired volumeof the particulate matter is loaded in the transport container.According to an exemplary embodiment, the method 1100 can also includethe act of 1110 increasing the rotational speed of the rotatable memberto increase the density of at least a portion of the particulate matterin the container. As used in this application, the terms “drieddistiller's grains,” “DDG,” “dried distiller's grains with solubles,”“DDGS,” “grains,” “granular material,” “pelletized material” or the likecan refer to particulate matter. Although many types of biomass may befermented in an alcohol plant producing various types of particulateproducts to be transported to other locations, a corn-based ethanolplant producing dried distillers' grains is discussed throughout thisapplication for illustrative purposes of material properties andoperational aspects for this invention. Also as used in the application,the terms “railcar,” “container,” or the like can refer to a transportcontainer. It is understood that an embodiment is not limited to theloading of transport containers that are combined in a train, but can beused, for all loading processes of transport containers (e.g., fortrucks, ships or the like).

The word “exemplary” is used to mean serving as an example, instance, orillustration. Any aspect or design described as “exemplary” is notnecessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over otheraspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplarystructures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art.Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in aconcrete fashion, and the disclosed subject matter is not limited bysuch examples.

As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean aninclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” To the extent that theterms “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used ineither the detailed description or the claims, for the avoidance ofdoubt, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar tothe term “comprising” as an open transition word without precluding anyadditional or other elements.

In view of the exemplary apparatus and methods, methodologies that maybe implemented in accordance with the disclosed subject matter will bebetter appreciated with reference to the flowcharts of the variousfigures. While for purposes of simplicity of explanation, themethodologies are shown and described as a series of blocks, it is to beunderstood and appreciated that the claimed subject matter is notlimited by the order of the blocks, as some blocks may occur indifferent orders and/or concurrently with other blocks from what isdepicted and described. Moreover, not all illustrated blocks may berequired to implement the methodologies.

It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of theelements of the disclosed subject matter as described in thisapplication and as shown in the figures is illustrative only. Althoughsome embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, thoseskilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciatethat many modifications are possible (e.g. variations in size,dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements,values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors,orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novelteachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example,elements shown as integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces maybe reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structuresand/or members or connectors or other elements of the system may bevaried, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided betweenthe elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/orassemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide varietyof materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of awide variety of colors, textures and combinations. Accordingly, all suchmodifications are intended to be included within the scope of thedisclosed subject matter. Other substitutions, modifications, changesand omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions andarrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from thespirit of the present inventions. Additional details of the loadingapparatus may be found, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 7,762,290, thedisclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

1. A loading apparatus for distributing particulate matter duringloading of the particulate matter into a transport container, theapparatus comprising: a housing including an inlet and an outlet eachconfigured on a side of the housing so that particulate matter can passthrough the housing from the inlet to the outlet and from the outletalong a flow path of the particulate matter into a transport container,the inlet of the housing being configured for connection to a loadingspout of a particulate matter conveying system; a rotary driveoperatively supported with respect to the housing; and a rotatablemember operatively connected with the rotary drive and supported withrespect to the housing so as to be rotatable within the flow path of theparticulate matter for spreading particulate matter within the transportcontainer in a radial direction away from the flow path of theparticulate matter from the housing outlet, the rotatable membercomprising a central axis of rotation and at least two curved armsextending radially from the central axis of rotation.
 2. The loadingapparatus of claim 1, wherein the rotatable member further comprises abase portion through which the central axis extends and from which theat least two curved arms radially extend.
 3. The loading apparatus ofclaim 2, wherein the base portion is generally linear and comprises afirst end from which a first curved arm radially extends and a secondend from which a second curved arm radially extends.
 4. The loadingapparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the curved arms comprises an innersurface spaced from an outer surface.
 5. The loading apparatus of claim4, wherein the inner surface of each of the curved arms is concave andthe outer surface of each of the curved arms is convex.
 6. The loadingapparatus of claim 5, wherein the convex outer surface of each of thecurved arms comprises a particulate contact surface.
 7. The loadingapparatus of claim 6, wherein the rotatable member is rotatable aboutthe central axis of rotation in a rotation direction that causes theparticulate contact surfaces of the curved arms to spread particulatematter radially within the transport container and away from the flowpath of the particulate matter from the housing outlet.
 8. The loadingapparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the curved arms comprises aproximal end and a distal end, and wherein each of the curved armstapers down from a first width at its proximal end to a second width atits distal end.
 9. The loading apparatus of claim 1, wherein therotatable member comprises a generally S-shaped member.
 10. A loadingapparatus for distributing particulate matter during loading of theparticulate matter into a transport container, the apparatus comprising:a housing including an inlet and an outlet each configured on a side ofthe housing so that particulate matter can pass through the housing fromthe inlet to the outlet and from the outlet along a flow path of theparticulate matter into a transport container, the inlet of the housingbeing configured for connection to a loading spout of a particulatematter conveying system; a rotary drive operatively supported withrespect to the housing; and a rotatable member operatively connectedwith the rotary drive and supported with respect to the housing so as tobe rotatable within the flow path of the particulate matter forspreading particulate matter within the transport container in a radialdirection away from the flow path of the particulate matter from thehousing outlet, the rotatable member comprising a central disk and atleast two arms extending from an outer edge of the disk.
 11. The loadingapparatus of claim 10, wherein each of the arms extends in a directionthat is generally perpendicular to an axis that extends across a widthof the central disk and through a center point of the central disk. 12.The loading apparatus of claim 10, wherein each of the arms extends in adirection that is angled relative to an axis that extends across a widthof the central disk and through a center point of the central disk. 13.The loading apparatus of claim 10, wherein each of the arms is curved.14. The loading apparatus of claim 10, wherein the rotatable membercomprises four arms extending from the outer edge of the disk.
 15. Theloading apparatus of claim 10, wherein the central disk is a conicalmember.
 16. A loading apparatus for distributing particulate matterduring loading of the particulate matter into a transport container, theapparatus comprising: a housing comprising an inlet configured toreceive the particulate matter and an outlet configured to dispense theparticulate matter; and a rotatable member operatively supported withrespect to the housing, wherein the housing is movable relative to thetransport container and the rotatable member is configured to move atleast a portion of the particulate matter that has been dispensed intothe transport container, and wherein the rotatable member comprises acentral axis and at least two curved arms extending radially from thecentral axis.
 17. The loading apparatus of claim 16, wherein therotatable member is an integrally formed member.
 18. The loadingapparatus of claim 16, wherein each of the curved arms comprises aninner surface spaced from an outer surface, and wherein the innersurface of each of the curved arms is concave and the outer surface ofeach of the curved arms is convex.
 19. The loading apparatus of claim18, wherein the convex outer surface of each of the curved armscomprises a particulate contact surface.
 20. The loading apparatus ofclaim 16, wherein the rotatable member comprises a generally S-shapedmember.